Benzoic acid is a simple aromatic carboxylic acid with the formula C₆H₅COOH. It consists of a benzene ring bonded to a carboxyl group. Naturally occurring in some fruits and resins, it is usually manufactured synthetically on a large scale.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Benzoic Acid |
| IUPAC Name | Benzenecarboxylic acid |
| CAS Number | 65-85-0 |
| Molecular Formula | C₇H₆O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 122.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Melting Point | 122 – 123 °C |
| Boiling Point | 249 °C |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble in water; soluble in ethanol, ether, acetone |
| Odor | Slight pleasant odor |
Benzoic acid occurs naturally in:
Cranberries
Prunes
Cinnamon
Clove oil
Berries (in small amounts)
Benzoin resin (from Styrax trees)
Although it is naturally present, industrial demand necessitates synthetic production for large-scale use.
The most common method of manufacturing benzoic acid is through the oxidation of toluene in the presence of oxygen and a cobalt or manganese catalyst.
C₆H₅CH₃ + O₂ → C₆H₅COOH + H₂O
This method is cost-effective, scalable, and widely used across the globe.
Benzoic acid is extremely versatile and is used across a wide range of industries:
Used as a food preservative (E210).
Inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds.
Commonly found in carbonated drinks, fruit juices, pickles, sauces, and jams.
Often used in the form of sodium benzoate, its salt form.
Used in ointment formulations for treating fungal skin infections.
Acts as a pH adjuster and preservative in syrups and solutions.
Part of benzoic acid and salicylic acid ointments for skin conditions.
Acts as a preservative in skin creams, shampoos, deodorants, and facial cleansers.
Regulates pH and extends product shelf life.
Intermediate for the synthesis of plasticizers like benzoyl chloride, alkyd resins, and polyesters.
Used in caprolactam production, a key monomer for nylon.
Precursor to various organic compounds:
Phenol
Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoates
Benzimidazoles
Used in the synthesis of dyes, insect repellents, and antioxidants.
Benzoic acid is typically available in different grades based on end-use requirements:
| Grade | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Food Grade | Beverages, processed foods |
| Pharma Grade | Ointments, tablets, oral syrups |
| Industrial Grade | Plastics, resins, coatings |
| Reagent Grade | Laboratory and research use |
| Parameter | Specification (Typical) |
|---|---|
| Purity | ≥ 99.0% |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Melting Point | 121 – 123°C |
| Heavy Metals | < 10 ppm |
| Color (Hazen) | ≤ 50 |
| Chloride/Sulfate | < 0.01% |
Manufacturers provide COA (Certificate of Analysis) and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) with each shipment.
25 kg or 50 kg HDPE bags with liner
Fiber drums
Custom bulk packaging available
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
Keep containers tightly closed to avoid moisture absorption
Avoid exposure to strong oxidizing agents